If you’d like to be considered for this opportunity we encourage you to apply promptly to avoid disappointment as if applications are high the role will close before the closing date given.
Role: Future Infrastructure Programme Director
Let us introduce the role
AWE is seeking an outstanding Programme Director to lead the delivery of a nationally significant, multi‑billion‑pound portfolio of work supporting the UK’s Continuous at Sea Deterrence (CASD) programme.
This is a senior, high‑profile leadership role with accountability for shaping and delivering a complex portfolio of future infrastructure across sites in the Reading area. The programme spans a wide range of assets, including advanced science and engineering facilities and highly specialised manufacturing and production capabilities.
You will hold single‑point accountability for delivery, setting strategic direction across commercial, technical, economic and people dimensions. Leading large, multi‑disciplinary teams, you will take the portfolio from early concept through delivery and into sustained operations, balancing individual project needs against long‑term capability outcomes.
The role demands exceptional leadership and influencing skills, operating at Executive and Board level and working closely with key external stakeholders across government and industry.
Who are we looking for?
We are looking for an exceptional programme and projects leader with a proven track record of delivering major, complex programmes within the nuclear sector or similarly regulated environments.
You will be recognised as an industry leader, bringing the gravitas, credibility and judgement required to lead at the most senior levels. You will be comfortable balancing risk, assurance and regulatory requirements while maintaining focus on delivery, outcomes and long‑term capability.
You will be an inspiring leader who can coach and develop senior leaders, build strong succession plans, and influence effectively both within and beyond the organisation. You will also bring experience of working with industry partners and supply chains to develop and deliver innovative technical solutions.
We do need you to have the following:
Significant experience leading major infrastructure programmes or portfolios of work, ideally within the nuclear sector or other highly regulated industries
Deep understanding of complex project and programme delivery, including governance, assurance and regulatory compliance
Experience working within collaborative commercial arrangements, from tender formulation through contract management
Strong working knowledge of UK HMG assurance and governance frameworks, including Cabinet Office and HM Treasury processes
Familiarity with IPA (NISTA) expectations and recognised industry guidance such as APM project delivery standards
Proven ability to lead and develop large, multi‑disciplinary teams and hold leaders to account
Excellent stakeholder management skills, with the confidence to operate at Board, Executive and external partner level
A leadership style that promotes the highest standards in programme management, risk, cost and schedule control, alongside ESG, nuclear safety, quality, wellbeing and security
Professional project qualification (e.g. ChPP) or a clear commitment to achieving this
Location of role:
RG7 4PR, located between Reading and Basingstoke, with free onsite parking.
Some reasons we think you’ll love it here:
AWE has wide range of benefits to suit you. These include:
9-day working fortnight – meaning you get every other Friday off work, in addition to 270 hours of annual leave.
Market leading contributory pension scheme (we will pay between 9% and 13% of your pensionable pay depending on your contributions).
Family friendly policies: Maternity Leave - 39 Weeks Full Pay and Paternity Leave - 4 Weeks Full Pay.
Opportunities for Professional Career Development including funding for annual membership of a relevant professional body.
Employee Assistance Programme and Occupational Health Services.
Life Assurance (4 x annual salary).
Discounts – access to savings on a wide range of everyday spending.
Special Leave Policy including paid time off for volunteering, public service (including reserve forces) and caring.
The 'Working at AWE' page on our website is where you can find full details in the 'AWE Benefits Guide'.
Next steps:
Everyone who works at AWE brings unique skills and perspectives to the table. We recognise that great people don’t always ‘tick every box’. That’s why we focus on your potential, your fit with our values, your transferable skills as well as your experience. Even if you don’t meet every point above, but you feel that this role and AWE are a great fit for you, please go ahead and apply, we’d love to receive your application.
Important things you need to know:
Our ambition is to create workplaces where we recognise and celebrate differences, encourage diverse contributions and our employees feel able to be themselves at work. We strive to create a genuine culture of openness and inclusion and encourage diverse applicants. Any inclusion information you provide will be stored in accordance with GDPR and kept separate from your application form and CV, and the information will not be shared with anyone involved in interviewing or making hiring decisions.
Please note that you must be a British Citizen to apply for a role with us.